Possibility of a 5 nights cruise available upon request (available to individual cabin bookings and private charters). Please contact us for details
Saturday, Day 1
After your pick up on Saturday about 5pm you will be taken to where Emma is moored to meet the rest of your crew and to enjoy a champagne reception. We shall let you get settled in and unpacked, which is the most strenuous task of the week, and then sit back and relax while we take a short cruise so that you feel you really are on a boat. During this time the first of your gourmet dinners will be prepared.
Sunday, Day 2
After a leisurely breakfast of fresh fruit, croissants, homemade jams, cereal and coffee you will be taken off in the minivan to explore the wonderful medieval city of Carcassonne. A stroll through the cobbled streets with the array of boutiques, a visit to the Feudal Castle, a foray into the Inquisition museum or a walk along the ramparts. Carcassonne has something for everyone to enjoy. Back to the boat for a lunch of tasty homemade pates, quiches and salads followed by a selection of the 365 cheeses that France has to offer and washed down with some of the finest wines of the Languedoc Roussillon region. After lunch we shall cruise off to our next mooring spot along the canal, going down several locks -- some double, some triple -- as we start our descent towards the Mediterranean. Emma will stop at another lovely setting where your evening dinner will be served.
Monday, Day 3
After breakfast today you will be whisked off again to discover another delight of the region. We could go to Lagrasse, a little village in the heart of the Corbières with a magnificent Benedictine Abbey perched on the banks of the river Orbiel and where the little cobbled streets house a multitude of potters, artists, wood carvers, etc. Or we could go and visit the giant underground cave at Cabrespine, or again visit the ruins of the old Cathar stronghold Chateau Lastours. Steeped in history. Every visit is organized around the things which interest you most. Another delicious lunch will be ready for you when you get back and you will be able to relax while we cruise on to our next stop.
Tuesday, Day 4
The Midi is famous for its open-air markets and today you will have the chance to experience this for yourself when we visit the market at Olonzac. The smells of the olives and herbs and the roasting chickens will make your mouth water and the arrays of fresh fruit and vegetables are a picture. We will then go up into the heart of the Minervois region to Minerve, a spectacular village set on a rocky outcrop in the gorges formed by the rivers Cesse and Brian. There are lovely walks here, just the thing to build up your appetite for lunch. If you have plenty of energy after lunch while Emma is cruising to her next stop maybe you would like to take a bicycle ride or a stroll. The towpath follows the canal all the way so any time you want to this option is available.
Wednesday, Day 5
Narbonne is our tour for today. The ancient capital of Roman Gaul still retains a lot of its history. You will see the Via Domitia, a road 2000 years old with its chariot ruts still visible; visit the old Roman storehouses, the Archbishop's palace, the Cathedral St Just with its cloister, high altar, and splendid organ. For those of you who enjoy food and markets, the indoor market at Narbonne is one of the best. You will see the finest display of fish, shellfish, fruit, vegetables, meats, herbs, spices, olives, cheese, and the list goes on. Perhaps you would like to dip your feet in the blue water of the Mediterranean, or visit the little fishing port of Gruissan. So many wonderful choices...
Thursday, Day 6
Today we continue our lazy cruise which takes us under the smallest bridge in France; if you can get under this you can go anywhere on the canal system. A choice of visits awaits you. A wine tasting at Guery or at St Chinian, a visit to the Abbey at Fontcaud, a trip up to the prehistoric site of Enserune with its panoramic views...there is so much to see, you will be spoiled! Your final Gala dinner awaits you tonight.
Friday, Day 7
All too soon your week is over, but we will still manage a short cruise before we say our good- byes and after your breakfast you will be taken to your next destination to continue your onward journey, taking with you lasting memories of this most beautiful countryside.
Route runs in reverse on alternate weeks and may differ on selected cruise dates
Emma
Emma is a lovingly restored barge – a Klipper Aak of Belgian origin. She lived in the Paris region for 95 years until she was lured south in 2001. Today Emma welcomes her guests with great accommodation and service, gourmet cuisine and a warm atmosphere that will make your trip unforgettable. ...Rates are for 6 nights (Saturday departure to following Friday) per person and based on double occupancy per cabin unless noted as whole barge private charter
Half Board Cruises (charters only) include 4 evening meals and 2 lunches aboard and the other meals are taken ashore at a restaurant of your choice and at your expense
Possibility of a 5 nights cruise (available to individual cabin bookings and private charters) -- See Dates & Rates Below
Not Available!
